How to Remove Cigarette Smoke Smell From a Book

Cigarette smell has a way of permeating every object it comes into contact with and leaving a residual odor or stain. Nothing that comes into contact with it is safe, not even books. It is fortunate, however, that the residual odor is as easy to remove as it was to put there. It only takes a little patience and know-how and the smell of cigarettes can be lifted from books with minimal effort.

Things You'll Need

• Baking rack
• Baking soda
• Box
• Crushed charcoal
• Old sock
• Fabric softener sheet
• Cedar chips
• Resealable plastic bag
• Clothespins

Instructions

Several Options

1. Place a baking rack in a box and sprinkle baking soda around it. Place the book on the baking rack so it is elevated and no baking soda is touching it. Close up the box and allow it to sit for several days. Check on it regularly and refresh the baking soda once a week until the odor is gone.

2. Put crushed charcoal into an old sock and put it in a plastic bag along with the book and tie up the bag. The charcoal will help to eliminate the odor. Leave the bag sealed for three days. Check the book to see if it still smells and repeat if necessary until the odor is gone.

3. Place three fabric softener sheets in an airtight bag along with the book and allow it to sit for 48 hours. The book should smell fresh and clean when you pull it out.

4. Put a couple handfuls of cedar chips into a resealable plastic bag with the book. Set the bag in a cool dry area and check on it in 24 hours. If the odor persists, seal it back up for another 24 hours.

5. Hang the book from a clothesline with clothespins on both corners on a warm sunny day. Leave the book there for three to four hours and let the sun do the work for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid the use of harsh chemicals and any liquids as this may damage the book.